homosexual vs heterosexual parents Flashcards
Just as good care!
Research consistently indicates that there are few significant differences between homosexual and heterosexual parents in terms of parenting abilities, child outcomes, and overall family functioning. Numerous studies have examined various aspects of parenting and have found that children raised by same-sex parents develop in ways similar to those raised by heterosexual parents (Patterson, 2002, 2004; Perrin & Committee, 2002).
Where differences do exist, they often stem from structural and social factors rather than inherent parenting abilities. For instance, studies suggest that same-sex couples may have a more egalitarian division of childcare responsibilities, with tasks being shared more equally between partners compared to traditional gendered parenting roles often seen in heterosexual relationships (Patterson, 2002). Additionally, same-sex parents tend to exhibit greater awareness and responsiveness to their children’s emotional and psychological needs, possibly due to the intentional nature of their family formation and the social challenges they may anticipate (Flaks et al., 1995).
Another key distinction is the level of social support available to same-sex parents. Kurdek (2004) found that support networks, including extended family, friends, and community organizations, play a crucial role in the well-being of both parents and children in same-sex families. While some same-sex parents may face stigma or discrimination, strong support systems can buffer against these challenges, ensuring a positive environment for child development.
more positive studies
manning 2014-This study assesses the well-being of children in same-sex parent families, emphasizing that differences in child outcomes are largely attributed to socioeconomic factors and family stability rather than parental sexual orientation.
Mazrekej 2022- the study highlights that despite the additional stressors faced by same-sex parents due to societal prejudice and legal barriers, there are no significant disadvantages for children raised in same-sex parent households compared to those raised by different-sex parents. The findings suggest that child well-being is not inherently determined by parental sexual orientation but rather by broader contextual and familial factors. The study advocates for a shift away from deficit-driven comparisons, emphasizing the importance of supportive environments and further research that acknowledges the diverse experiences of families
discrimination
Clarke et al., 2010-A study by Victoria Clarke and colleagues explored how lesbian and gay parents discuss their children’s experiences with homophobic bullying. The research highlighted that parents navigate a complex social context where acknowledging bullying can lead to perceptions of bad parenting, while denying it may seem implausible. This study underscores the challenges faced by same-sex parents in addressing potential victimization of their children
Goldberg et al., 2020- It found that 47% of parents reported at least one victimization experience for their child in the past year, with no significant differences across family types. However, in rural areas, children with lesbian and gay parents were predicted to experience more victimization than those with heterosexual parents. Conversely, in large urban areas, these children experienced less victimization. The study also noted that higher levels of victimization were associated with increased internalizing and externalizing symptoms in children- positvely regarding bullying problems homosexual parents were more likely to take action than heterosexual parents
a good review study
Fond et al., 2011-
critics have expressed concerns about children raised by lesbian mothers, particularly the absence of a father and the mother’s sexual orientation.
However, research over the past 30 years has consistently found no significant differences in key developmental areas between children raised by lesbian mothers and those raised by heterosexual parents.
These areas include sexual orientation, gender identity, gender role behavior, emotional and behavioral development, social relationships, and cognitive functioning.
Additionally, lesbian mothers show no significant differences in parenting ability, psychological health, or maternal skills compared to heterosexual mothers.
Findings on Gay Fathers:
Studies generally suggest that children raised by gay fathers experience no significant differences in sexual orientation, socialization, or psychological outcomes compared to those raised by heterosexual fathers.
However, one study on adult women with gay or bisexual fathers found they were less comfortable with intimacy, had more difficulty trusting others, and experienced greater anxiety in relationships than those with heterosexual fathers.
This issue has not been studied among lesbian families or co-parenting structures.
Discussion & Limitations:
Family processes (such as the quality of relationships) are now considered more important in predicting children’s well-being than the sexual orientation of the parents.
Most studies focus on children aged 4 to 16, and small sample sizes (often under 30) limit the reliability of findings.
There is little research on the long-term well-being of adult children raised by same-sex parents.
Studies have not sufficiently explored cross-cultural differences in how children of same-sex parents experience discrimination or social challenges.
